Life has already changed for newly crowned world champion . On Monday, the Chinese star became the first amateur player in history to land the title at the , showing sublime form to beat 18-12.

His success signifies an incredible return to the sport . Zhao only returned to professional tournaments in September, but at 28, is now being tipped to win further world titles. After beating Williams, he was .

"Thank you, thank you, many thanks," he said. "My mum, my parents, Victoria, my girlfriend and my coach when I was young, thank you, thank you to the WST (World Snooker Tour), thank you, CPBSA academy where I was practising. Thank you."

Just moments later, Zhao was seen posing for pictures with his newly won trophy. Alongside him were both his mother and partner, who were making rare public appearances.

Zhao is an only child to parents Zhao Xiaowei and Wen Anxiao. Little is known about his girlfriend, reportedly called Yiyi, but she was all smiles as her boyfriend celebrated the biggest triumph of his career.

Yiyi remained close by as Zhao also posed for photos with his agent and Victoria Shi, who runs snooker's Sheffield Academy. He also revealed his plans for his post-final celebrations, admitting he would treat himself to a drink.

"It's very exciting," he added. "I was so nervous tonight. Mark is still a top player and put me under so much pressure. He's the best. I'm not tired. I'll maybe have a good drink tonight."

Zhao's World Championship victory means he'll go from having for the 2025‍/26 season. He also earned the biggest prize money payout of his career in Sheffield, with his win worth £500,000.